FAQS
Tariff 9 Quick Reference Sheet
Select a question below to view the answer.
Boat Related Questions
Do I have to stay in my vehicle for the ferry trip?
You are not required to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the trip. However, because vehicles may be parked in very close proximity, if you plan to exit your vehicle, please let the Able Seaman know before you drive onboard so they may allow space.
For the safety of yourself, others and the crew you are expected to be in your vehicle during the loading and unloading process. The Maine State Ferry Service recommends you stay in your vehicle due to COVID19 when at all possible.
Is there food & drink service on the boat?
No, there are no concession services on board the vessels. You are welcome to bring food and non alcoholic beverages on board with you for your enjoyment during the trip.
Are vessels accessible for individuals with disabilities?
MSFS owns and operates seven ferry vessels. Given the age and maintenance schedule for the vessels, accessibility on each may vary. As the MSFS replaces its fleet, new vessels will be fully compliant. As existing vessels undergo maintenance they will be assessed for accessibility upgrades where it is technically feasible, given the scope of maintenance.
Whenever possible, reasonable effort shall be made to allow unassisted boarding of customers utilizing personal wheelchairs, scooters or other types of mobility aid(s), unless such efforts pose a risk to the customer, other customers or employees of MSFS. Please call the departure terminal ahead of time if assistance is requested.
Are dogs allowed on the boats?
Yes! Pets are allowed on board the vessel. Each boat has a pet friendly cabin that is clearly marked for those passengers traveling with their pets. We do ask that you keep your pet leashed/restrained and clean up after them
as
necessary.
Ticket Related Questions
Should I purchase my tickets in advance of my trip?
There is no benefit to purchasing tickets in advance. Unless the tickets are associated with a reservation, they do not ensure passage and are not trip specific. Tickets are non refundable so should your plans change, the
weather not cooperate or for any number of reasons you do not use them, you have them to utilize on a future trip and cannot be returned.
Do you sell off season tickets at a reduced rate?
Yes, Off Peak season is October 1 to May 31, and rates are lower during that time. A Peak season ticket may be used during the Off-Peak season though no refund for the difference will be issued. An Off-Peak season ticket may be used during the Peak season by purchasing an additional Off-Peak Upgrade Ticket for the difference.
Island Related Questions
What's on the islands?
All of the islands serviced by the Maine State Ferry Service are highly residential fishing communities. Vinalhaven has a village area that is within walking distance of the Ferry and offers a handful of shops and a couple
restaurants. The other islands have a general store and a restaurant or two but vary in their accessibility and distance from where the ferry docks.
Do you provide inter-island services for pedestrians?
No. There is no inter-island service available through the Maine StateFerry Service for vehicles or passengers. There may be private water taxi services available. Customers should inquire about such services by contacting the
island terminal.
Boarding Related Questions
How do I know if my vehicle will make it on board?
With all the varying factors to be taken into consideration, the line attendant will not have a clearer answer until the boarding process has begun. It all depends on how many reservations arrive on time, the size/length of
vehicles and how many vehicles ahead of you in line are occupied and intending to board the next available boat.
Ferry Passage Related Questions
How rough is the trip?
Marine conditions are contingent on current and offshore weather conditions and can vary from calm to rough on any given day.
Will we see wildlife during the trip?
Although there are no guarantees that you will see wildlife on your trip, You may see, a variety of coastal birds and the occasional otter, seal or porpoise.
I want to do a day trip, does it matter which scheduled time I depart?
You will want to familiarize yourself with the schedule and allow enough time to ensure you will be able to be on board a return trip. Typically waiting until the afternoon does not ensure enough time to accommodate the round
trip boat ride and allow for time to visit the island.
My children will be accompanying me on the ferry, what do I need to know?
Many children look forward to the adventure of a boat ride! For safety we ask that children be attended and please do not allow your child(ren) to play on the deck of the boat. Vehicles are subject to shifting and sudden
movement during the trip and it is unsafe for children to be playing around or under the vehicles on board. The doors and windows on the vessels are extremely heavy and can be quite damaging to little hands and feet. Please
assist your children with opening doors to the restrooms, cabins and windows.
Parking Related Questions